BY MICHELLE KEY
PUBLISHER
OPELIKA — Opelika Main Street’s annual Holiday Open House will be held Nov. 9 in downtown Opelika.
“We’re excited to kick off the holiday season in downtown Opelika,” said Main Street Director Kelsey Gallahar Sullivan.
“This year, we’ve created a festive postcard that will include a map of all participating businesses and a list of their specials or promotions on the back,” she said.
The postcard will also feature spaces for stamps. Shoppers who collect stamps from at least three locations during the Holiday Open House will be entered into a giveaway — a fun way to encourage people to explore more of downtown.
Adding to the fun, Opelika Main Street’s “elves” — local board members dressed for the occasion — will be roaming downtown, surprising shoppers with Downtown Dollars worth $5 to $25. To claim the reward, shoppers simply need to spot an elf and say the magic words: “Jingle Bells!”
“Opelika Main Street welcomes all to dine and shop during Open House, where visitors can enjoy deals and festive discounts,” said Opelika Main Street board member Lisa Harrelson. “This cherished event not only boosts downtown foot traffic but also strengthens community bonds and spreads holiday cheer.”
More than 20 local merchants will feature extended shopping hours, special sales and giveaways throughout the afternoon. Shoppers will also have the chance to win a Downtown Opelika Prize Bag valued at more than $300 by participating in the event’s shopping challenge. To enter, participants can pick up a map at any participating business, make a purchase to receive a stamp and turn in a card with at least three stamps for a chance to win.
Visitors can browse a wide variety of boutiques, specialty retailers and gift shops — the perfect opportunity to shop local and soak in the Christmas spirit while checking off holiday lists.
The Holiday Open House is free and open to the public. Free parking is available in multiple downtown lots.
For a full list of participating businesses and event details, visit www.opelikamainstreet.org or follow @downtownopelika on Instagram and Opelika Main Street on Facebook.
